Restaurant news: 1 closure, top chef leaves, wine dinner, picnics, SWFL Eats newsletter
In this week’s restaurant news, find out which top chef left her most recent position and who's closing for good.
And given that COVID is yet again making local headlines, it’s a good time (in spite of our hot weather) to consider al fresco dining. We have ideas to elevate the experience. Prefer to stay cool? Why not try an Italian wine dinner uptown, where dining amid temperature-controlled wines may be just the ticket.
Closing time
According to its Facebook page, Nawty Hogg BBQ at Galleria Shoppes on Vanderbilt bids adieu on Aug. 17. The post also mentioned that next-door neighbor (and a personal favorite) Angelic Bakery & Desserts is taking its space. Maybe. Stay tuned.
Chef on the move
The very talented Kayla Pfeiffer left her executive chef role at PJK Neighborhood Chinese for a new project for which she pinky promises to share details soon. Prior to PJK, she was opening top toque at Bar Tulia's Mercato location and held the same title at The French on Fifth Avenue South.
Italian Wine Dinner
Just in: five courses paired with five Italian wines for $100? Yes, the Cave's new Executive Chef David Rashty is serving veal Marsala, squid ink cacio e pepe, grouper puttanesca and other delicious things on Aug. 16 at 6 p.m. The evening begins with a prosecco reception followed by dinner, technically making it six courses. Space is limited; reservations a must. Call and ask for Will.
(2343 Vanderbilt Beach Road at Galleria Shoppes; 239-513-0095; napleswinecollection.com)
BOWLing for dollars
On Aug. 18, the new Oahu Fresh Bowls honors Hawaii Statehood Day with 20% of sales benefiting Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund for residents affected by the devastating wildfires. Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
(13040 Livingston Road, Naples; 239-331-2200; oahufreshbowls.com)
Picnic ideas
When first arriving in Naples from New York City during the summer of 2015, I couldn’t believe how hot and humid August was. A then-new acquaintance warned me that September’s weather is no picnic either, so why not make it one?
The Continental had me at salmon rillettes and pate served in a picnic basket. Three more courses are elegant interpretations of traditional picnic fare, all served family-style and paired with various vintages of Veuve Clicquot, one of few vegan-organic Champagnes. You’re seat? A tres chic sun-blocking tented cabana. $200 per person before tax and tip. (1205 Third St. S., Naples; 239-659-0007; damicoscontinental.com)
DIYing it? Head to Old World Market for Mediterranean and other European cheese, charcuterie and the brightest green olives plus racks of old-world wines with selections from various regions, including Macedonia, Greece and Sicily. The charming co-owner and wine expert Moe Dimitrov is from Bulgaria; use his guidance for pairing ideas. Another tip: Don’t even try to resist just-baked baklava for dessert. (2800 Davis Blvd., Naples; 239-692-3020)
Join the conversation
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This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Restaurant news: 1 closes, chef moves, wine dinner, fun picnic ideas
